Organic Trace Minerals: Immunity, Health, Production and Reproduction in Farm Animals

Abstract

Trace minerals, needed in minute quantities, are essential nutrients for animal production, reproduction, immunity and health. Presently, these micronutrients are supplemented in the diet of the animals largely as their inorganic salts, however, their bioavailability from inorganic salts is often poor. In recent past, animal nutritionists have come up with organic mineral supplements and indicated their high bioavailability and functionality over inorganic salts. However, effectiveness of organic minerals appears to differ in different species of animals and they seem to be more beneficial in non-ruminants than ruminants. In this communication, an attempt has been made to review the effectiveness of organic mineral supplements in terms of their bioavailability, effects on growth, immunity, production, reproduction and health in different species of animals.